Post-birth bleeding, or lochia, can last for up to six weeks, becoming lighter after two.
You may experience sporadic heavier bleeding if you are breastfeeding, as this causes the uterus to contract. Bleeding may be lighter if you had a C-section.
'Lochia can remain heavy if there's an infection or if the uterus isn't shrinking back normally, so see your GP if you're worried,' says GP Dr Carol Cooper.
Use sanitary towels NOT tampons, which could introduce bacteria into your uterus, causing an infection.